Beans, Brews, and Bonds: Uniting Employees through Cold Brew Coffee

Creating a casual space for employees to connect and get to know each other is essential for fostering a sense of community in the workplace. At SmartNews, Our Office & Community Team, or O&C for short, plays an important role in this by hosting small events that allow employees to bond over shared interests. In our most recent event, employees from our US and China offices had the opportunity to come together with their Tokyo colleagues and delve into the art of making delicious cold brew coffee, guided by SmartNews' in-house barista.

Under the expert guidance of the barista, participants delved into the various brewing techniques that create a smooth cup of cold brew, a refreshing delight as Tokyo settles into the hot days of summer. They also had the chance to savor three distinct single-origin cold brew coffees expertly prepared by the barista. Comparing tasting notes and discussing their favorite flavors among the three, employees engaged in lively conversations and shared their newfound appreciation for this delightful beverage.

This small-scale event was a wonderful opportunity for employees who had previously only connected online to meet face-to-face and develop relationships beyond their day-to-day work interactions. As more employees gradually return to the office and international travel between our offices becomes more feasible, we eagerly anticipate future events that bring our global team together.

At SmartNews, we recognize that a strong sense of camaraderie and familiarity among employees translates into a more vibrant and collaborative work environment. By creating these casual spaces for employees to connect and explore shared interests, we strive to foster a positive and engaging workplace culture. The success of this cold brew coffee event is a testament to the effectiveness of such initiatives in building strong relationships and enhancing the overall employee experience.

As we move forward, our Office & Community Team will continue to curate diverse and exciting events that cater to the interests of our employees. Whether exploring new culinary experiences, engaging in team-building activities, or delving into other areas of shared passion, we are committed to creating an environment where our employees can thrive both professionally and personally.